After reading the section on the Introduction to the Study of Mythology in Module 2, respond to the following questions:
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How does this material correspond to the ideas you have had about myth prior to coming to this class?
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One of the major issues facing people who study myths, particularly for those invested in a particular belief system, is responding to the many similarities between different myths. Our historical overview of myth lists several responses to this problem. Which response appeals most to you, and why?
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If we include in the term "myth," any stories that attempt to answer the great questions about who we are, where we come from, and why we are here, what "myths" operate around us today, and how significant are they to you, to the people you know, or to modern culture around the world?
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As you can see from the discussion of the history of the study of mythology explained in the Course Content and Chapter 1 of Leonard & McClure, there has been a great deal of discussion and disagreement over myth and its meaning. What approaches to the study of myth do you find most interesting, and why? Which approaches are most closely tied to your field of study or to your personal interests and hobbies?
Be sure to give a well developed response to each, and respond to the posts of at least two of your classmates.